Early Retirement: Depressed and not enjoying life anymore

by John
(Philadelphia,PA)

Hi,

I decided to post this just to see what feedback I might get. I retired about 3 months ago. I didn`t really want to leave but I was facing threats of suspension and ultimate dismissal because my work performance (speed handling calls,voice quality etc) was deemed unsatisfactory. I had worked there for 30 yrs.

A retirement package was offered and I decided to take it rather than be forced out with no package in place.

I never stopped to think that my job, while less than ideal, provided me with the means to do everything that made my life worthwhile---hikes on the Appalachian Trail,trips to Grand Canyon and Alaska even the simple pleasures of getting takeout food from my local pizza place.

Now at age 52, I find myself 10 yrs away from being able to get Social Security and with a small pension that will be hard to live on let alone do all of the things in life that I used to enjoy.

There are days when I struggle to even get out of bed and face another day. I worry about every penny I spend at the supermarket and keep my thermostat at 50 degrees so as not to have a $300 gas bill.

In short, I now worry about EVERYTHING and life is no fun anymore.

I heard a news report recently that for every job out there,there are 7 people lined up so even getting a part time job might not be the answer.

To make matters worse,I should`ve taken the lump sum at retirement but instead I took the annuity as I consulted an investment advisor too late.

I worry now about not having enough money to live a meaningful fun life anymore and that makes my depression and fear constant!


I would love to undo my decision to retire!!!!!

Wendy's Two Cents: You do sound depressed and most anyone forced out of a job (thousands out there) can go through the same self-doubt.

Have you seen a doctor? I don't like prescriptions, but instead of falling deeper into your hole, why not talk to him? Perhaps light anti-depressant makes the world of difference in your mindset, your attitude, so you can see the beauty of simple life around you.

My newspaper, today, talks about the "Millenniums" being different types of workers compared to us boomers. They don't like working... grin! Don't read the news and think there are no jobs out there... there are and, with the right attitude, you could be just the person they are looking for. Maybe, just maybe, you were a little depressed before you retired, due to the treatment you got from your employer. Shake it off and get LIVING again!

You don't have to be "retired".. get back to work, do anything just to keep busy and get some social contacts back into your life.

Go volunteer somewhere... the economy improves and if you've done a good job, they hire you. In the meantime, you are out in society, helping others, being productive -- to find yourself again.

Please consider joining my Retirement Transition Group... Under JUST FOR FUN, Email Friendships (to the left), as we discuss retirement transition every day.

I'm retiring in two weeks, after 36 years, and I pray I don't fall into a depression like this...

Best Wishes! Wendy